Severe gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to halt over 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, while agencies say that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled as a result of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on this day come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
